Parents of children with Down syndrome in the northwest have said their kids' dreams have become a reality with the formation of the Sligo Rovers Down syndrome futsal team.
The new team is part of the Rover's Social Responsibility programme at the Showgrounds.
Coach Jamie Murphy says the club contacted Down Syndrome Sligo to get the ball rolling and received some support from the FAI.
"We’ve got about 30-40 players registered - male and female from Sligo, Leitrim and Mayo. The uptake has been fantastic," Murphy added.
He said: "The players would have different levels of experience. We keep the sessions relatively simple but accessible to everyone; a warm-up, a match situation and a chat afterwards on what went well – like any mainstream team."
The FAI has been proactive in developing national competitions for teams representing League of Ireland clubs.
Ten League of Ireland teams will compete at a Down syndrome futsal tournament in Abbotstown, Co Meath early next month.
Áine McKeown says her sons "dream has become a reality." She added they’re delighted with Sligo Rovers - "we’re very proud of the team and we’re delighted for him," she said.
Murphy oversees the Rover’s Social Responsibility programme. He sees the importance the opportunities for players to meet other players and for families to meet other families.
"There’s a great social element as well in terms of regular training. All players want to play competitively, including our DS futsal team. The important part of it is these players are representing Sligo Rovers," he added.
Another parent, Fineen O’Driscoll, says the team ticks several boxes for parents as it is competitive, social and active.
Chairperson of Sligo Down Syndrome Nikki Curran says the futsal team helps on several levels in respect of mental health and physical activity.
"We’re now moving into the era where everybody is talking about sport and mental health. It’s no different for our family members or our members here," she said.
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